The City Commission will proceed with introducing ordinances related to animals during the regular meeting on Tuesday, May 2.
That will include new language allowing small farm animals on residential properties, and a variety of changes and additions to the city’s overall animal ordinance.
Staff also drafted a section on feral cats and has surveyed the community on the issue. However, staff and commissioners agree that more research must be done before potentially bringing it forward for a vote.
While commissioners agreed another work session on these issues would be helpful, it wouldn’t have happened until June due to an already-packed schedule, particularly because of the budget. Commissioners also agreed they want to move the topics forward, resulting in the decision to introduce the ordinances.
Anyone wishing to give input on urban farm animals and/or the definition and language changes to the city’s animal ordinance can do so during public comment at the May 2 meeting.
Those who cannot attend the May 2 meeting and wish to comment on these issues – including feral cats – can do so by email at PublicInput@battlecreekmi.gov or calling 269-966-3378.
More information on urban agriculture and livestock is available at the city’s website, battlecreekmi.gov/planning. More information on the overall animal ordinance is at battlecreekmi.gov/police. Navigate to Overview – Resources – Animal Ordinance.
Any additions to the ordinances made prior to the May 2 meeting will be made available to the public as soon as possible.